Dayamati's eyes swept over the assembled group, lingering briefly on Jolthar with an expression that was assessing and slightly predatory. Then Rani gestured to the central seating area—a mattress that was elevated slightly above the others, clearly in the position of honor.
"Please, Your Majesty, if you would grace us with your presence at the central seat."
Dayamati moved to the elevated mattress with elegant grace and settled onto the cushions with the ease of someone who expected comfort wherever she went.
Only after she was seated did everyone else resume their seats.
The two women who had entered with her took positions slightly behind and to either side, close enough to be included in conversation, but clearly in supporting roles.
